Three Herbs with Special Significance

As the name of the herbal combination Triphala ("Three Fruits") suggests, it consists of the three fruits Haritaki, Amalaki, and Bibhitaki. This is no coincidence, as the number three has a special meaning in Ayurveda and includes the threefold approach of body, soul, and mind. Ayurveda therapists appreciate the effect of Triphala on the body and have been using it for many years. The three fruits selected for VITALOVE's Triphala also have special significance. They belong to the plant genus of myrobalans, a winged seed plant. There are several hundred species in tropical regions, which have had a fixed place in Ayurveda for 1000 years and are very popular there.

Haritaki

Haritaki is known as the black myrobalan and grows in the Middle East, India, China, and Thailand. It bears green fruits, which are a component of Triphala. Especially in Ayurveda, the fruits are highly regarded and are called the "Queen of Medicine" there. Haritaki contains a high proportion of tannins, flavonoids, gallic and ellagic acid.

Amalaki

Amalaki is considered the fruit of the Amla tree, i.e., the Amla berry, also known as the "Indian gooseberry." It has long been used in Indian medicine and beauty care. This is mainly because Amalaki has a high content of vitamin C, amino acids, minerals, and fatty acids. Furthermore, Amla oil can also be extracted from the berry, which can be used for hair care. The berries of the Amla tree are edible and are part of various vegetable dishes on the menu.

Bibhitaki

Bibhitaki, also called the Baheda tree, is a tree that mainly grows in Southeast Asia. The fruit of the tree has long been part of Ayurveda and is especially valued for its tannins and polyphenols content. Gallic acid and ellagic acid are also present. Also interesting: The seeds of the fruit were used long ago as dice for gambling.

Usage: Both Internal and External

Triphala is mostly available as a powder and can be used in various ways. It can exert its effect both internally and externally and can thus be experienced anew each time. The herbal mixture is especially known as tea and is traditionally used as such. For this, half a teaspoon is poured with hot water. The tea must steep for about ten to fifteen minutes before Triphala can develop its full flavor. It is recommended to drink the tea in the morning right after getting up or in the evening before going to bed. Triphala is also often used as a spice. Especially in Ayurvedic soups, the powder can be combined, but other dishes can also be refined with it. The special thing about this: From the Vedic perspective, five of the six tastes can be tasted in Triphala. Only the salty taste is not present. The easiest way to take it, however, is in capsule form. Here, the ideal amount of Triphala is already weighed and packed, so that depending on the manufacturer's instructions, only the respective number of capsules needs to be taken with a meal. Those who want to be convinced of Triphala's effect externally can incorporate the herbal mixture into their next massage. To allow the effect to fully develop, for example, a Triphala ghee is recommended, which is produced in a complex process. But massage with the herbal powder is also possible. This is called Udvartana and, in addition to the benefits of Triphala, has the practical advantage that the skin is exfoliated by the dry powder. For this, Triphala is mixed with barley flour and the skin is rubbed with the mixture in circular motions. Another application area of Triphala is oral hygiene. As part of oral care oils, the herbal mixture can be used for oil pulling. But also for washes or as a bath additive, Triphala has its fixed place in beauty care.

However, it is important that Triphala is not taken continuously every day. To avoid unwanted side effects, regular breaks should be taken. Ideally, a several-week cure with Triphala should be carried out several times a year.